A number of small businesses in Whitehaven could be closing their doors before the end of the year, warned a shopkeeper. 

Sarah Marsh, who opened the The Little People's Boutique last year, criticised Copeland Council's £1.4 million plans to regenerate part of the town centre - saying more needs to be done for existing small businesses. 

"There is just no footfall in the town," said the 31-year-old from Frizington. "I am considering moving my business to Workington or Carlisle before the end of the year. I don't want to move, but I can make more in one day in Carlisle than I can in a week here."

The shop owner says she know of three other independent shops in the town which are struggling to break even and seriously considering closing.

Two more disused buildings in the heart of the town are being renovated as part of Copeland Council’s Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) programme. 

Copeland mayor Mike Starkie said three new homes will be created and more than 140 square metres of retail space will either be improved or created. He hopes the transformation will also create three full-time and one part-time job.

While welcoming investment, Mrs Marsh said THI is rewarding those who let their buildings fall into disrepair.

Mrs Marsh added: "It makes you think there's no point in making your shop look nice, because the council will give you a grant anyway."

She thinks the money could be better spent on parking for shoppers and encouraging people start their own businesses.  

As an example, Mrs Marsh pointed to South Lakeland District Council's pop up shop in Kendal - which allows fledgling businesses an opportunity to rent a shop unit for a short period.

But Mr Starkie hit back saying THI provides "quality retail space makes the area an attractive investment, making the street a nicer place to be".

He said British Energy Coast and Cumbria Chamber of Commerce provide business advice and he is working to improve parking facilities.

He said: “We are working with partners to look at options to create a town centre manager to promote Whitehaven and support those looking to set up businesses here, however this is only achievable through joint working and funding.

“We have had a great response from market traders and those businesses based in the Market Place who have attended meetings with the council and other key partners to develop Whitehaven market, which in turn will increase footfall across the town centre.

“We are in the early stages however, we are working with our partners to make Whitehaven a destination shopping place for locals and visitors which will help all businesses in the town.”